Planeta, one of Sicily’s forward-thinking wineries, has fashioned a lovely blend of Nero d’Avola (50%), Merlot (25%), Syrah (20%), and Cabernet Franc. Planeta preserves the fruitiness by using only stainless steel (no oak) while allowing the Nero d’Avola to contribute engaging savory notes. Nicely balanced, they have avoided the all too common pitfall of trying to make it “more important” than it is. It’s an immediately pleasing go-to wine for everything from burgers to grilled leg of lamb.
